At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic marketing and communications for a flagship innovation programme.
- Company: Join a pioneering university initiative driving innovation in the North of England.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse stakeholders and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the narrative of groundbreaking research and innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in marketing or communications with experience in complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Launched in Autumn 2024, Unit M exists to unlock the University's full potential as one of the North of England's largest innovation assets by making the University's world‑class research, innovation capabilities and talent more accessible to all. Its remit is to accelerate the development of a global competitive, inclusive and impactful innovation ecosystem – from ideation and research translation, start‑up and scale‑up support, placemaking, talent and skills, community building, and more – which systematically breaks down barriers to the flow of ideas between the University and its partners. Unit M is expected to attract, generate and mobilise significant external funding from industry, investors, philanthropy and public sources to sustain and scale innovation activity and create new, sustainable funding streams.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the strategic marketing and communications plan for SMMC, ensuring alignment to programme objectives and long‑term ambitions.
- Define audience, messaging and channel strategy, establishing clear objectives, success measures and evaluation approaches.
- Position SMMC as a flagship innovation and scale‑up destination, building a compelling profile and communicating its regional and national impact.
- Own and shape the SMMC narrative across a complex programme environment, translating technical and research activity into clear, engaging communications.
- Lead the planning and delivery of integrated communications and marketing campaigns, ensuring coordinated delivery to agreed timescales and budgets.
- Provide strategic oversight of digital, media, content and event communications activity, ensuring consistent and effective engagement.
- Build and maintain influential relationships across internal and external stakeholders, acting as a senior communications representative and trusted adviser.
- Lead external agency and supplier relationships and report on communications performance and impact, ensuring high‑quality delivery and value for money.
What You’ll Bring
- Educated to degree level, with a relevant qualification in marketing or communications, or equivalent professional experience.
- Significant experience designing and delivering strategic marketing and communications programmes within complex, multi‑stakeholder environments.
- Proven ability to influence senior leaders and build effective relationships across organisational boundaries.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, compelling and audience‑appropriate communications.
- Strong leadership capability, including experience of leading teams and developing staff performance.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence operating in high‑profile and politically sensitive environments.
What You’ll Get
- 29 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and December closure days.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Flexible and hybrid working.
- Access to a wide range of staff benefits, including discounts, wellbeing support and development programmes.
Marketing & Communications Manager in Manchester employer: Manchester Digital
Unit M is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem in the North of England. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we offer extensive professional development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture that values collaboration and creativity. Join us to be part of a pioneering initiative that not only enhances your career but also contributes to meaningful societal impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Marketing & Communications Manager in Manchester
✨Show Your Creative Side
In marketing communications, standing out is key. Get creative with your application! Consider designing a mini-campaign or pitch that highlights your skills and understanding of the brand. Tailor it for Manchester Digital and show them what you can bring to the table.
✨Engage in Marketing Communities
Get involved in local or online marketing communications groups. Check out platforms like Meetup for events and workshops. Networking here can lead to hidden job openings and valuable insights into the industry trends—this is where we often discover what companies like Manchester Digital are looking for.
✨Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to showcase your passion for marketing communications. Share insights, articles, and your own content that resonates with the industry. Tagging or interacting with Manchester Digital on these platforms can catch the eye of recruiters and show you're genuinely interested in them.
✨Attend Industry Events
Keep an eye out for marketing conferences and workshops. These are great places to meet potential employers face-to-face and make connections that could land you a full-time role at Manchester Digital. Bring your business cards and be prepared to chat about how you can contribute!
We think you need these skills to ace Marketing & Communications Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft an Impactful Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Focus on your passion for marketing communications and how your previous experiences can benefit Manchester Digital. Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As you're diving into a marketing communications role, your writing ability is crucial. Include samples of your work, like blog posts, press releases, or social media campaigns in your application. This lets us see your style and how you engage with different audiences.
Tailor Your CV to Marketing:Your CV should highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences! Include specific tools or platforms you’ve used, like Google Analytics or social media management software. Mention any certifications or workshops related to marketing that you've completed – they can give you an edge!
Demonstrate Your Understanding of Manchester Digital:Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about Manchester Digital’s marketing approach or any recent campaigns that caught your attention. This can reveal your enthusiasm for the role and your genuine interest in joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Showcase Your Creative Campaigns
Get ready to flaunt your portfolio! Include examples of previous marketing campaigns you've worked on, especially those that showcase your creativity and strategy. Recruiters at Manchester Digital will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
✨Know Your Digital Tools Inside Out
If you’re heading into a marketing-communications role, make sure you're comfortable discussing key digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or Hootsuite. Expect some technical questions about how you've used these tools in the past, as they'll want to gauge your hands-on experience and how you analyse data to drive marketing decisions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
At Manchester Digital, they may throw some scenario-based questions your way, aimed at testing your problem-solving skills in real-life marketing situations. Think through potential challenges you’ve faced, how you navigated them, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcome.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Marketing
As you’re applying for a full-time position, show that you're not just looking for a job, but a career in marketing. Talk about the latest trends in marketing communications, your favourite campaigns, and why they inspire you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out and demonstrate that you’re committed to growing within the field.
